SPRINGFIELD, Ore. — The Willamette National Forest has reduced its emergency closure order for the Emigrant Fire, initially reported on August 24, 2025, in the Middle Fork Ranger District. The closure, aimed at ensuring public and firefighter safety, has been modified to allow increased access due to successful hazard mitigation efforts by firefighters. The revised closure is effective from September 29, 2025, through October 31, 2025, unless altered or lifted earlier.
The Emigrant Fire, caused by lightning, is located in a remote area three miles southwest of Indigo Springs Campground and spans approximately 33,096 acres. While the Pacific Crest Trail #2000 and Diamond Peak Wilderness remain open, several areas, roads, trails, campgrounds, and recreation sites within the closure area, including those in the Timpanogas Lake area, are closed. Newly opened roads include segments of Forest Service Road (FSR) 2149, FSR 2160, FSR 2127, FSR 23, FSR 5850, and FSR 5851. Trailheads now accessible include Blue Lake, Corrigan Lake, Diamond Peak (north and south), Pioneer Gulch, Rockpile Lake, and Vivian Lake…